AsianScientist (Aug. 19, 2019) – The Singapore National Eye Centre (SNEC) and Singapore Eye Research Institute (SERI) are stepping up efforts to prevent, control and increase early detection of myopia. These efforts include the development of partnerships with international organizations, collaborating with stakeholders to advance clinical research and increasing public education.
“There is a pressing need to take steps towards improving the understanding of myopia, with an aim to reduce its prevalence and impact in Singapore,” said Professor Wong Tien Yin, medical director of SNEC. “As such, in addition to our focus on clinical service, SNEC has put in place a range of developments and partnerships with international and national organizations with a strong focus on research, innovation, education and advocacy of myopia prevention to tackle the problem at its roots.”
As part of its education initiatives, SNEC has signed a memorandum of understanding with Singapore Polytechnic to improve optometry training for students. The signing was accompanied by the launch of an illustrated children’s book on myopia titled Amanda the Panda: Outdoor play keeps myopia away. Through the story, children will be able to learn about myopia in a fun and engaging way, including the benefits of engaging in two hours of outdoor activity daily—one of the preventive means to reduce myopia and improve overall physical and mental health.
The book, co-authored by the clinical directors of the recently opened Myopia Centre in Singapore, and published by Wildtype Books, is suitable for children between three and eight years old. These books will be available at primary schools and libraries across Singapore and can also be found at Singapore-based book stores such as Kinokuniya and Huggs Epigram.
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Source: Singapore National Eye Centre; Photo: Cyril Ng/AsianScientist.
Disclaimer: This article does not necessarily reflect the views of AsianScientist or its staff.
